The Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) and the Live International Ventures (LIV) announced a historic merger on Monday, creating a new entity called PGA-LIV that will oversee the global development and promotion of golf. The merger, which was valued at $4 billion, is expected to bring more opportunities and resources for golfers, fans, sponsors and broadcasters around the world.
However, the merger also sparked controversy and criticism from some quarters, especially from those who accused the PGA of hypocrisy and double standards. The main reason for this backlash is the fact that LIV is owned by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has been involved in several human rights violations and controversies in recent years.
One of the most notable incidents was the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, which the CIA concluded was ordered by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The PIF is also the main backer of the Saudi International tournament, which is part of the European Tour and has attracted some of the top golfers in the world with lucrative appearance fees.
The PGA has been vocal in its opposition to the Saudi International and the proposed breakaway Super Golf League (SGL), which is also funded by the PIF and aims to lure away the best players from the PGA Tour and the European Tour with huge prize money. The PGA has threatened to ban any player who joins the SGL from its events and has urged its members to “protect the game” from such “money grabs”.
However, by merging with LIV, the PGA is effectively aligning itself with the same entity that it has criticized and condemned for undermining the integrity and values of golf. This raises questions about the PGA’s motives and credibility, as well as its commitment to human rights and social responsibility.
Some golfers have expressed their disappointment and frustration with the PGA’s decision, such as Rory McIlroy, who said he felt “very uneasy” about it and that he hoped it was not a “money-driven” move. Others have defended the merger, such as Dustin Johnson, who said he trusted the PGA’s leadership and that he believed it was a positive step for golf.
The PGA-LIV merger is undoubtedly a game-changer for golf, but it also comes with a lot of baggage and controversy. It remains to be seen how it will affect the sport’s image, reputation and future.
